Melissa Galloway holds the highest dressage score ever recorded by a New Zealander at the Olympics — but behind that incredible achievement is a story of persistence, doubt, growth, and grit.

In this episode of On the Edge, Melissa shares what it really took to get there. We talk about the mental toll of elite sport, the identity struggles behind perfectionism, and how stepping back helped her reconnect with why she rides at all. She opens up about the moments she nearly gave up — and how choosing to keep going led to her greatest breakthrough.

Melissa isn’t just a world-class athlete — she’s a genuinely lovely human who gives back to the sport with grace and generosity. Whether you’re an equestrian, an athlete, or simply someone chasing a big dream, this conversation is full of real insight and powerful reminders that even when it feels like the end… it might just be the beginning of something better.

00:00 – Teaser: “It wasn’t until I took the pressure off…” 00:09 – Intro: What this episode is really about 01:00 – Growing up in Southland: the spark that started it all 04:20 – Melissa’s rise: from regional arenas to Olympic records 07:15 – The mental cost of the intensity overseas 10:00 – Feeling lost and nearly giving up 13:40 – Letting go: what changed when the pressure eased 17:05 – Redefining success and rediscovering the joy 19:30 – Supporting younger riders and giving back to the sport 21:10 – Jump Off Round: the rapid-fire rider questions 22:00 – Final thoughts & reflections 22:50 – Outro: like, follow, and share the ride

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In this episode of On The Edge, we dive into the inspiring journey of Monica Spencer, a New Zealand eventer who has competed at the World Equestrian Games, Maryland, Kentucky, and Burghley 5*'s and was the reserve rider for the Paris Olympics. Monica shares her unique perspective on resilience, mindset, and the highs and lows of competing at the top level of eventing.

Kindly brought to you by The Brave Pants Co.

[00:00] Introduction Savanna introduces Monica Spencer, highlighting her achievements and the remarkable mindset that has propelled her career.

[00:08] Early Life and Love for Horses Monica talks about growing up on the Kapiti Coast, learning to produce ponies from scratch, and how her rural upbringing instilled resilience and a love for eventing.

[01:08] New Zealand’s Influence on Riding Monica reflects on how New Zealand’s equestrian culture, from backyard ponies to pony club, shaped her skills and determination.

[03:24] Transition to International Competitions She shares her experience moving from local competitions to representing New Zealand at the World Equestrian Games and beyond.

[03:36] Mindset During Major Events Monica discusses her approach to handling pressure, staying focused, and striving for personal bests, no matter the stakes.

[06:49] Reflecting on Achievements Monica highlights the importance of appreciating the journey and how she’s learned to cherish every moment along the way.

[13:09] Learning from Setbacks She opens up about key challenges, including her fall at Adelaide Five Star, and how these experiences helped her grow as a rider.

[23:10] Preparation and Training Monica explains her belief that confidence comes from preparation, sharing how she sets her horses up for success through meticulous training.

[25:08] Pressure and Performance She explores how to cope with the pressures of competing at the highest level and her mantra of “pressure is a privilege.”

[29:22] Partnership with Max Monica discusses her bond with her champion horse, Max, their journey together, and her dream of retiring him in New Zealand.

[30:40] Future Goals and Current Horses Learn about Monica’s current team of horses, her plans for the LA Olympics, and how she’s preparing for the future.

[32:50] Advice for Aspiring Riders Monica shares heartfelt advice: “Be brave. Being brave is not the absence of fear but doing it anyway.”

[34:44] Jump Off Round A fun rapid-fire session where Monica reveals her pre-ride routines, her horses’ quirky habits, and the best advice she’s ever received.

[39:12] Conclusion and Gratitude Savanna wraps up the episode, thanking Monica for her insights and The Brave Pants Company for sponsoring.

Tune in for an inspiring look into the life and mindset of one of New Zealand’s top eventers. Don’t forget to follow, share, and join us next time!

In this episode of On The Edge Podcast, we are thrilled to welcome our very first guest, the lovely Charlotte Penny. Charlotte is a remarkable 4* eventing rider who has taken both individual and team victory at the Oceania Championships and has dominated the eventing scene in New Zealand in recent years.

In this inspiring episode, Charlotte shares her journey from her early days in Taupō to competing at the highest levels of eventing. She opens up about her special partnership with her horse Sparky, the mental and physical challenges of high-performance sport, and the tools and mindset tips she uses to stay focused and resilient under pressure.

Whether you're an equestrian enthusiast or simply looking for motivation, Charlotte’s story offers invaluable insights into overcoming setbacks, building confidence, and staying grounded.

Join host Savanna Stirling and co-host Crystal Wilson as they step inside the mind of Charlotte Penny in this engaging and uplifting conversation.

We did this in our stables so we do apologise for the background noise. We will set to rectify this for future episodes.

Key topics:

• Charlotte’s early days in eventing and finding her path
• The special bond with her horse Sparky
• Overcoming mental blocks and building confidence
• Balancing life as a high-performance rider and university student
• Handling setbacks, burnout, and maintaining perspective

Tune in to discover practical tools, inspiring lessons, and a behind-the-scenes look at the life of one of New Zealand’s top eventers.